BLD/Specialist/TBT-BLD-013

Basement Waterproofing Safety

Building & Structural Works › Specialist › Basement Waterproofing Safety

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Basement waterproofing prevents water ingress through below-ground walls and floor slabs.
Common systems include tanking membranes, cavity drain systems, and cementitious coatings.
Many waterproofing products contain solvents, resins, or bitumen that create harmful fumes.
Enclosed basement areas with poor ventilation can quickly accumulate hazardous vapour concentrations.
COSHH assessments are required for all waterproofing products before application begins.
Torch-applied membranes involve hot works and create fire risks in confined basement spaces.
Primer coats are often highly flammable and must be applied with adequate forced ventilation.
Working in basements combines below-ground risks including flooding, poor access, and low headroom.
Correct surface preparation may generate silica dust requiring RPE and extraction equipment.
Waterproofing often takes place before permanent ventilation and lighting are installed.

Fume exposure	Solvent and bitumen fumes accumulate quickly in enclosed basements and can cause loss of consciousness or long-term illness.
Fire risk	Flammable primers and torch-on membranes in a confined basement create a serious fire and explosion hazard.
Health protection	Skin contact with resins and bitumen causes dermatitis, while dust from preparation contains respirable silica.

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See also: COSHH Awareness | Hot Works Fire Prevention

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